Raga Hamir Bahar

Raga Hamir Bahar is a khayal performance by Hindustani classical vocalist Kishori Amonkar. The recording spans 29 minutes and 51 seconds and showcases Amonkar’s interpretation of the rare raga Hamir Bahar, a melody associated with the late evening or early night raag tradition. The composition adheres to the Kafi thaat and incorporates elements of both shuddha and komal swaras, with a focus on intricate taan patterns and bol-banao improvisation.

Amonkar renders the raga in the vilambit and drut ektaal framework, a 12-beat cycle commonly used in Dhrupad and Khayal. The performance emphasizes the gamak-laden phrasing characteristic of the Jaipur-Atrauli gharana, of which Amonkar was a leading exponent. The recording captures her signature vocal control, microtonal inflections, and dynamic exploration of the raga’s chalan (melodic movement).

The release date and original label of this specific recording remain undocumented in widely accessible sources. The performance exists in live and studio formats, with some versions circulated through private collections and archival releases. Notable sections include an extended alaap that establishes the raga’s mood, followed by a bandish (composition) in ektaal. The taan sequences in the latter half demonstrate Amonkar’s command over layakari (rhythmic play) and sargam improvisation.

Kishori Amonkar (1932–2017) was a recipient of the Padma Vibhushan (2002) and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1985). Her renditions of rare ragas, including Hamir Bahar, contributed to the preservation and evolution of the gayaki (vocal style) associated with the Jaipur tradition. This recording serves as a reference for students and connoisseurs studying the structural and emotional depth of the raga.